Not all heroes wear capes and for the isolated outback Burketown State School in Queensland, it was volunteers with Lions Clubs shirts that came to the rescue.
Last year when Burketown was devastated by flood waters, Lions Past District Governor Michael MacLaren and his partner Max Tavasci were the first on the scene to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the town’s needs.
PDG Michael MacLaren thanking Hawkins Transport for providing free freight containing donated Lions hampers into Burketown.
Michael and Max quickly mobilised the local Lions network of volunteers to distribute essential items and support.
The volunteers distributed hampers containing essential items to the hardest-hit members of the community, including station owners and the Indigenous communities.
After meeting with the Aboriginal Corporation to address their unique needs, Lions incorporated snake bite kits and first aid kits in the hampers.
Towels, sheets, blankets, and Lions Christmas Cakes and Puddings were also donated to the local health clinic.
Supplying tuck-shop equipment to the local school, including stainless steel shelving, a sandwich maker, slushie machine, barbecue and gas bottles, benefiting not only the students but also families displaced during the floods.
The emergency relief utilised funds raised by hard-working Clubs across the Lions Q2 District in North Queensland.
Lion Max Tavasci packing up essential supplies for the Burketown community.
The impact of these efforts goes beyond immediate relief, contributing to the long-term well-being of the Burketown community.
The local Lions will further demonstrate their commitment by returning to conduct a free eye health screening test for the children on 18th July 2024, during which Michael and Max will be honoured with an award by the school.
“Last year our school was devastated by floods. Local Lions volunteers came to our rescue,” says Burketown State School Principal Chris Ford.
“A special shout out to Lions Past District Governor Michael MacLaren and his partner Max who really took the time to understand what the community needed and mobilised the Lions network to make it happen.”
Burketown State School Principal Chris Ford pictured with his Australia Day Community Champion Award for his own outstanding performance during the 2023 floods.
“We are incredibly grateful for the ongoing support of Lions and it’s wonderful to see them setting such a great example and highlighting the importance of community service for our students, ” said Chris.
Lions’ flood relief continues…
As disasters continue to devastate parts of the country in 2024, Lions are there providing vital support to communities.
Members from the Marlin Coast Lions Club in Cairns preparing food for SES and emergency workers as they help residents affected by Cyclone Jasper.
Whether it’s cooking for emergency service personnel, setting up free laundry and shower vans or simply lending a helping hand to someone who has lost everything.
L: Q2 District Governor Jo Lynes presented Cairns school student with a laptop after her family’s belongings were destroyed in floods. R: Q3 District Governor Andy Fitzgerald shopping for new tools with QLD tradie who lost all in floods.
Lions continue to uplift the spirits of those who have lost so much in disaster-affected communities.
Well done to all our volunteers – where there is a need, there is a Lion!
Lion treks from Darwin to Adelaide for a good cause
/in OUR STORIES /by JemmaOn the first day of May in 2024, a remarkable journey will begin.
Lion Chris Woods will step out from Darwin, destination Adelaide, her purpose a heartfelt one – to uplift and support causes that hold a special place in her heart.
Along with her treasured Tenterfield Lions Club, organisations that are devoted to mental health (Beyond Blue, Dads 4 Kids, and Black Dog Institute) resonate deeply with Chris.
Her son’s brave fight to gain custody of his children has etched these causes into her mind and are the motivation behind her trek to Adelaide.
“Witnessing the struggles of young fathers like my son, I felt compelled to stand by these charities that have been our beacon of hope,” Chris shares.
Accustomed to walking long distances as a magazine distributor, Chris is no newcomer to this challenge.
Her determination has previously led her to complete multiple Relay For Life events, as a tribute to her late husband’s courageous battle with cancer.
Chris now embarks on a 3,000-kilometre journey – a testament to her resilience.
She hopes to illuminate the tireless efforts of these organisations dedicated to mental health awareness and support for Aussie dads.
You can follow this heart-stirring journey on Facebook and join Chris in making a difference.
Donations will go towards Chris’ chosen organisations, including 10% going to the Tenterfield Lions Club, who will put the donations towards mental health projects in their community.
Commonwealth Bank – Stanthorpe
BSB: 064 431
ACC: 10272413
Local School thanks Lions for Flood Relief Support
/in EMERGENCY RESPONSE, OUR STORIES /by JemmaNot all heroes wear capes and for the isolated outback Burketown State School in Queensland, it was volunteers with Lions Clubs shirts that came to the rescue.
Last year when Burketown was devastated by flood waters, Lions Past District Governor Michael MacLaren and his partner Max Tavasci were the first on the scene to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the town’s needs.
PDG Michael MacLaren thanking Hawkins Transport for providing free freight containing donated Lions hampers into Burketown.
Michael and Max quickly mobilised the local Lions network of volunteers to distribute essential items and support.
The volunteers distributed hampers containing essential items to the hardest-hit members of the community, including station owners and the Indigenous communities.
After meeting with the Aboriginal Corporation to address their unique needs, Lions incorporated snake bite kits and first aid kits in the hampers.
Towels, sheets, blankets, and Lions Christmas Cakes and Puddings were also donated to the local health clinic.
Supplying tuck-shop equipment to the local school, including stainless steel shelving, a sandwich maker, slushie machine, barbecue and gas bottles, benefiting not only the students but also families displaced during the floods.
The emergency relief utilised funds raised by hard-working Clubs across the Lions Q2 District in North Queensland.
Lion Max Tavasci packing up essential supplies for the Burketown community.
The impact of these efforts goes beyond immediate relief, contributing to the long-term well-being of the Burketown community.
The local Lions will further demonstrate their commitment by returning to conduct a free eye health screening test for the children on 18th July 2024, during which Michael and Max will be honoured with an award by the school.
“Last year our school was devastated by floods. Local Lions volunteers came to our rescue,” says Burketown State School Principal Chris Ford.
“A special shout out to Lions Past District Governor Michael MacLaren and his partner Max who really took the time to understand what the community needed and mobilised the Lions network to make it happen.”
Burketown State School Principal Chris Ford pictured with his Australia Day Community Champion Award for his own outstanding performance during the 2023 floods.
“We are incredibly grateful for the ongoing support of Lions and it’s wonderful to see them setting such a great example and highlighting the importance of community service for our students, ” said Chris.
Lions’ flood relief continues…
As disasters continue to devastate parts of the country in 2024, Lions are there providing vital support to communities.
Members from the Marlin Coast Lions Club in Cairns preparing food for SES and emergency workers as they help residents affected by Cyclone Jasper.
Whether it’s cooking for emergency service personnel, setting up free laundry and shower vans or simply lending a helping hand to someone who has lost everything.
L: Q2 District Governor Jo Lynes presented Cairns school student with a laptop after her family’s belongings were destroyed in floods. R: Q3 District Governor Andy Fitzgerald shopping for new tools with QLD tradie who lost all in floods.
Lions continue to uplift the spirits of those who have lost so much in disaster-affected communities.
Well done to all our volunteers – where there is a need, there is a Lion!
Lions fire up the BBQ to feed the hungry on public holiday
/in OUR STORIES /by JemmaIn the heart of Coffs Harbour, the spirit of giving did not fade even after Christmas Day.
On Boxing Day and New Year’s Day, traditionally overlooked by meal services, the hungry found solace.
The Coffs Harbour Lions Club extended a warm hand to those without access to food kitchens on these public holidays, driven by a collective desire to help vulnerable community members including the homeless.
The club’s efforts served to bridge this gap, offering food and drinks, funded by the generous donations from the siblings of a Lions Club member.
The menu was a feast, featuring bacon and egg rolls, sausages and onions, cakes, muffins, chocolates, fruit, shortbread, and more. Intent on elevating the occasion, the club had special bags of goodies for all attendees, sewn by member Teng.
These reusable bags served as a practical gift for the homeless, moving away from single-use plastic.
Club members contributed non-perishable food items, and local companies generously donated reusable water bottles and fresh fruit.
The joy of helping others is a reward in itself, as Lion Rosemary shares, “The gratitude of someone who hasn’t eaten since Friday, asking for seconds, warms the heart.”
The club plans to continue these BBQs on public holidays, making a difference one meal at a time.
Lions Receive International Acknowledgement For Overseas Aid
/in EMERGENCY RESPONSE, OUR STORIES /by JemmaThe Lions Club of Mooloolaba has earned the Model Club Award from the Lions Clubs International Foundation due to their impactful contributions and leadership in humanitarian efforts.
The club has been instrumental in extending the Foundation’s aid to disaster-stricken communities globally, including the resettlement of refugees in 17 countries.
Their fundraising initiatives, such as the sale of Christmas cakes and sausage sizzles, have been well-supported by the local community.
One of their primary fundraisers is the Fisherman’s Road Market, run by dedicated members of the club, including the former Mooloolaba Lioness club members.
Recently, their aid was directed locally with significant donations to various causes, including drought-affected farmers, bushfire victims, local families, and cyclone and flood victims in North Queensland.
Congratulations Mooloolaba Lions! You can read more about their prestigious award here.
Lions bring dignity to the homeless
/in EMERGENCY RESPONSE, OUR STORIES /by JemmaThe Bundaberg Hinkler Lions Club are celebrating the joyful news that Wayne, a regular user of their laundry and shower service for the homeless, has found a place to call home through public housing.
For over four years, Wayne had been living in his car, relying on their service.
His heartwarming transition to a stable home touched the Club so deeply that they also gifted him a bed, fridge, microwave, bed linen, and more to help him rebuild his life.
The Club’s mobile shower and washing machine trailer, a beacon of hope for many, has been functioning for more than eight years, extending its services every Wednesday at Barolin Street United Church and Thursday at Christ Church in Maryborough Street.
The trailer’s annual operation cost of $5,000 is covered by funds raised from Club activities, including their environmentally-conscious can and bottle recycling project.
The Club’s commitment to compassion and care for the homeless community continues to make a significant difference in the lives of people like Wayne.
You can find out more via their Facebook page here.
Lions Band Together for Bushfire and Drought Benefit
/in EMERGENCY RESPONSE, OUR STORIES /by JemmaWhen disaster strikes, Lions’ volunteers are always amongst the first to offer support.
Queensland Lions have sprung into action to support farmers and their families in the South Burnett who are struggling through Australia’s current drought conditions and the impact of recent fires.
Image by Past Tense Photography.
Coming together to show their support, Q4 District Lions along with South Burnett Music Awards and South Burnett Regional Council organised and sponsored the Blackbutt Bands Together benefit held last Sunday on the 3rd of December.
Image by Past Tense Photography.
Over 200 people attended the free event, which was held at Hotel Radnor in Blackbutt and boasted an exciting music line up including David Lynch, Lloyd Back, Ground Crew featuring Amos, Richie Arrowsmith, Paradox and headline act Rufus Jack.
Image by Past Tense Photography.
Raising more than $10,000 so far, all funds will be used to provide farmers with vouchers for essentials like groceries, rural supplies, fuel and other necessary items.
A further $6,000 has been raised by the Mooloolaba Lions Club to support communities impacted by bushfires in Queensland’s Western Downs region (including Tara and Millmerran).
Image by Past Tense Photography.
Chris Pullin, manager of Noosa Keys Resort and member of the Tewantin Noosa Lions Club, also donated 2 nights accommodation for 4 people which was auctioned off on Sunday.
Image by Past Tense Photography.
This was won by Lion Colleen Callaghan, member of Blackbutt Benarkin Lions Club, at a bid of $1,200. Colleen understands the impact of drought, having experienced a seven-year-long period of it during her time as a farmer.
Image by Past Tense Photography.
Well done to all involved – with the support of Lions and our communities, we can help our farmers and their families get through this tough time.
If you would like to show your support, the fundraiser will be active until the end of December. Click here to make a donation.
You can see more photos from the event on the Lions District 201 Q4 Facebook page.
Lions and Leo Club Win Kindness Matters Service Awards
/in OUR STORIES /by JemmaThe Leo Club of King Island (Tasmania) and Lions Club of Melton (Victoria) have taken out this year’s national Kindness Matters Service Awards.
The prestigious award recognises outstanding Clubs who develop creative and impactful service projects relating to one of Lions Clubs International’s (LCI) global causes; diabetes, childhood cancer, environment, hunger, vision, youth, humanitarian and disaster relief.
The Leo Club of King Island – Freedom to Feel Fantastic
The King Island Leos’ entry, ‘Freedom to Feel Fantastic‘, is a body image and self-esteem campaign by the Australian Lions Wellbeing Foundation (ALWF) designed to help young people feel good about the skin they’re in.
The Leos ran activities at their local District High School and were allowed to wear free dress, with any gold coin donations forwarded on to the ALWF.
The message of being kind to yourself was played out with students aiming water balloons at a splat wall, which was decorated with negative body image messages.
Younger students made photo frames designed with positive messages to “reframe their thinking”.
This is the second year Leos have run this activity, receiving great kudos from both their peers and teachers about the activities and messages represented.
Congratulations to the King Island Leos!
The Lions Club of Melton – Supporting Children Displaced by Crime
The Lions Club of Melton‘s entry, ‘Supporting Children Displaced by Crime’, involves donating emergency packs for children aged from newborn up to 14 years who have been taken into emergency care at the police station as a result of crime or safety concerns.
The project began after a chance catch-up with the Local Police Community Liaison Officer and a member of the Melton Lions Club.
A conversation ensued around local policing challenges and the Lions Club looking at building on their key focus this year around supporting children and young people.
It was during this conversation that they spoke of the challenges that police face on occasions where young people have been victims of or witnessed traumatic/emergency incidents and come into police care. In these scenarios the police need to provide dry, clean and warm clothes.
This scenario was immediately raised with the Lions Club Committee who quickly came together and purchased clothes, shoes, nappies and toiletries and made up “Emergency Packs”.
The clothing packs and trauma toys provided by the Melton Lions Club shows their care for their local community and supports vulnerable young people.
Both entries have now been sent to Lions Clubs International to be considered alongside the entries of other Multiple District winners for the international component of the program.
Global winners of the Kindness Matters Service Awards will be announced in February next year.
Lions Lap the Map for Diabetes 7 Times for World Diabetes Day
/in HEALTH, NEWS, OUR STORIES /by JemmaLions across the country were on a mission to reduce the prevalence of diabetes and improve the quality of life for those diagnosed this World Diabetes Day.
Lions invited members of the public to join them in putting on their walking shoes with the aim to travel a combined distance that exceeded Australia’s circumference (25,760 km) by the 14th of November.
The Lions Club of Bungendore and Districts were joined by members of the RFS at their Lap the Map event. Image: Rob Lane
With that target being easily met early on by hard walking volunteers, Lions were quick to double their goal and lap the map twice.
By November 14, Lions had not only lapped the map twice, but reported a combined distance of more than 190,000 km – over 7 times the distance of Australia’s circumference!
V5 District Governor Lyn Perera with National Diabetes Coordinator Pat Mills. Image: Brian Perera
National Diabetes Coordinator Pat Mills says Diabetes is a key focus for Lions and they would do what they can to help reduce the impact of the disease in their communities.
“Diabetes is a serious health issue affecting so many across Australia,” says Pat.
The Lions Club of Dalby had a huge turn out for their Lap the Map event.
“Across Australia, 1.3 million people have been diagnosed with Diabetes and 283 people are diagnosed every day. The disease can lead to serious health issues affecting the heart and blood vessels, eyes, kidneys, nerves and teeth.”
“In most high-income countries, Diabetes is a leading cause of cardiovascular disease, blindness, kidney failure, and lower limb amputation. It’s expected to affect 629 million adults by 2045.”
Members of the Valentine Lions Club at their Lap the Map event.
“Our Lions Lap the Map family friendly walks and campaigns in the community encourage people to get outside and have a walk to promote healthy lifestyle and raise awareness of the Diabetes epidemic in Australia.”
Congratulations to Pat and all other Clubs and volunteers who took part in Lions Lap the Map for Diabetes this year – a superb result for 2023!
You can see all the photos from participating Clubs on Facebook here.
P.S. Did we mention how on point the Lions branding looked at your Lap the Map events this year?
Click here to shop apparel, signage and other PR materials from our online shop ready for your next event in the new year now!
Lions Bushfire Relief in Queensland
/in EMERGENCY RESPONSE, OUR STORIES /by JemmaThat was the case for Lions in Queensland, who jumped into action during the recent devastating bushfires in the Western Downs region.
Many local school children lost everything in the fires so Dalby President Julianne purchased backpacks, hats, water bottles, school pads, pencils, towels, socks and underwear and sent three large bags to the Tara Lioness Club Branch.
A young girl who lost her home in the fire was also given a Lions Bear and was ecstatic at receiving it.
Dalby President Julianne says she will continue to work with Tara Lions members to provide support where it is needed.
Tara Shire State College Principal, Lion Belinda Walker and club branch Secretary, Lion Judith Bridge with a few of the items they received for students.
As well as meals and school supplies, an Orange Sky van also arrived at the evacuation centre with washing machines and dryers for Dalby residents.
Dalby Lions Club has partnered with Orange Sky to provide washing and drying services free of charge for disadvantaged people at the Dalby Laundromat.
L to R: Lions Glenn Shipway, Lorraine Freeman and Brett Kruger (Lions Club of Dalby).
Furthermore, Lions in District Q4 are organising a much needed fundraiser for families who have been impacted by recent bushfires and drought in both the South Burnett and Western Downs regions.
The “Blackbutt Bands Together” fundraising event will take place at Hotel Radnor on Sunday the 3rd of December from 11.30am – 5pm for an afternoon of music and entertainment.
And the support doesn’t stop here. When the smoke clears, Lions will still be there doing whatever they can to help those in need and to support communities as they rebuild.
If you would like to help ensure Lions can continue doing their vital work, you can make a donation to our National Disaster Appeal via the Australian Lions Foundation here.
Lions Hay Run Helps Lift Spirits for Farmers
/in EMERGENCY RESPONSE, OUR STORIES /by Jemma15 farming families had a reason to smile thanks to a generous donation of hay organised by the Murgon Lions Club.
The South Burnett, as like many other regions, has faced its fair share of agricultural challenges over the years, with extended droughts taking a toll on local farming communities.
Lion Peter Coombes was approached by residents concerned about the well-being of some of their neighbours, and Lions in District 201Q4 stepped in right away to help.
Farmer Bree Knopke with her young son, Teddy.
The project, which cost over $20,000, came together over just a short few hours with the Murgon Lions arranging a B-double load of oaten hay from NSW, delivered by local business Gleich Contracting.
A drop-off point was then organised in the Mt McEuen area for the morning of the 25th of October.
Lions Q4 District Governor Jackie Scott with some of the farmers’ children … Henry, Teddy and Sidney.
The farmers and their families were invited to collect the much-needed bales of hay, as well as talk to Graham House representatives who had information about the various support available to them.
The South Burnett Suicide Prevention Working Group also provided bags of goodies.
Alan Eagleson, who was helping to load the hay into farmers’ vehicles, with John Campbell (Lions).
Thank you kindly to Torkit Business Solutions (Kingaroy) for producing the below video.